MiningProbe – ED Raids Across Three Cities Uncover Cash, Silver and Key Records
MiningProbe – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into an alleged illegal sand mining case by conducting coordinated searches at multiple locations across Hyderabad, Jaipur and Coimbatore. The action was carried out on May 26 under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, as part of an ongoing probe into suspected financial irregularities linked to mining operations in Andhra Pradesh.
Officials searched business premises connected to GCKC Projects and Works Pvt. Ltd., Prathima Infrastructure Ltd. and Turnkey Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. In addition, the agency examined residential properties associated with several individuals, including Boinipally Srinivas Rao, Ashok Kumar and V.G. Venkata Reddy. Investigators also inspected a farmhouse reportedly owned by Srinivas Rao.
Investigation Linked to Earlier Anti-Corruption Case
The money laundering inquiry stems from a case originally registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau’s Crime Investigation Unit in Vijayawada’s NTR district. The complaint named former Mines and Geology Director V.G. Venkata Reddy along with several private firms, including Jaiprakash Power Ventures Ltd. (JPVL), Prathima Infrastructure Ltd. and GCKC Projects and Works Pvt. Ltd.
According to investigators, the case relates to alleged violations in sand extraction activities. Authorities are examining claims of unauthorized mining, breaches of contractual obligations and departures from conditions outlined in tender agreements governing sand excavation operations.
Findings Related to Sand Excavation Activities
The ED stated that monitoring mechanisms had been established following directions from the Supreme Court. District Level Sand Committees were tasked with inspecting mining sites and identifying potential cases of unauthorized extraction.
During the course of inspections, authorities allegedly found that certain companies had removed sand beyond approved limits. Investigators claim that excavation took place at depths exceeding permitted levels and, in some instances, outside designated mining areas. These findings became a key part of the ongoing inquiry into possible violations of mining regulations.
Notices and Financial Claims Raised
Following the inspections, the Department of Mines and Geology reportedly issued multiple show-cause notices seeking explanations from the companies involved. After reviewing the findings, authorities moved forward with financial claims against the entities concerned.
Official records indicate that demand notices totaling approximately Rs 2,407.70 crore were issued against the three companies in connection with the alleged excess extraction of sand. The claims relate to the estimated value of mining activities that authorities believe were carried out in violation of approved permissions.
Cash, Silver and Documents Recovered
During the latest search operations, ED officials seized assets and records that may be relevant to the investigation. The agency reported recovering Indian currency worth about Rs 1.53 crore along with foreign currency amounting to USD 1,800.
Investigators also took possession of silver bullion valued at nearly Rs 1.29 crore. In addition, several electronic devices were collected for further examination. Officials believe these devices may contain information useful to the financial investigation.
The searches also resulted in the recovery of various documents that are now being scrutinized by investigators. According to the agency, the records contain details relating to movable and immovable assets allegedly connected to the accused individuals and members of their families. Authorities are expected to examine these materials further as the probe progresses.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no final conclusions have yet been announced. The ED is continuing to analyze the seized evidence to determine the extent of any financial transactions and potential proceeds linked to the alleged mining violations.